More than 134,000 sign petition set up after Liam Payne's death to safeguard mental health of stars

The former One Direction star, from Bushbury in Wolverhampton, died last month after falling from the third floor balcony of a hotel in Argentina at the age of 31.

A fan of the late singer set up an online petition in the days that followed calling for new legislation which would see artists given mental health check-ups, rest periods and the support of mental health professionals in an industry which "let him down".

A total of 134,626 people had penned their names on the site as of Thursday (November 7) morning. 

A statement on the change.org petition reads: "Ultimately, I am angry and saddened that the industry has let him down. 

"I found myself needing to channel my emotions into something productive and this is where I am. He wanted this and I promised him in my heart I would do it. 

"...In recent news of Liam Payne's tragic death as many others, the entertainment industry needs to be held accountable and be responsible to the welfare of their artists. 

"We seek to implore lawmakers to create legislation safeguarding the mental health of artists within the industry.

"... Your signature could be a lifeline for these talented individuals, contributing to a larger movement of mental health awareness and care in industries worldwide."

In a statement issued shortly after his death, Liam's family said they were "heartbroken" and described the father-of-one as having a "kind, funny and brave soul".

The news was met with sadness by millions of people across the globe, with some having gathered to lay flowers at vigils, including in his home city and in Birmingham.

The late star's body was reportedly flown back to the UK this week, with his funeral expected to take place next week. 

To sign the petition, people should visit change.org/p/enact-legislation-to-safeguard-artists-mental-health-in-the-entertainment-industry